ARD/ML Resource Portal
We have created this portal to facilitate access to regulatory guidance and other materials that can help support effective Acid Rock Drainage / Metal Leaching risk management through mine life, from initial conceptual planning to post-closure.
The list of available resources is not exhaustive nor all inclusive. They provide a solid foundation, which should be supplemented as required to meet the needs of a given project or mine site.
Key Messages
A clear ARD/ML strategy is key to achieving regulatory compliance and establishing investor confidence.
Early integration of ARD/ML planning and management activities reduces long-term risks and increases operational certainty.
Regulatory expectations and industry standards continue to evolve, so it is beneficial to stay current and be proactive in terms of ARD/ML management.
We are here to help.
Technical Resources and Reference Material
MEND Guide:
A foundational manual for the characterization and prediction of mine drainage chemistry.
GARD Guide – Global ARD Reference Document:
Developed by the International Network for Acid Prevention (INAP), this is a comprehensive guide to global best practices.
INAP Research Library:
Includes papers and reports on ARD mechanisms and management practices.
ICMM – Integrated Mine Closure (2025 Update):
Outlines practical strategies for integrated mine closure, with emphasis on environmental risk and stakeholder engagement.
ICMM – Tailings Management: Good Practice Guide (2nd Edition):
Addresses safe and responsible management of tailings, including ARD considerations.
The Mining Association of Canada (MAC):
Canadian industry standard for managing tailings throughout mine life.
A Guide to the Management of Tailings Facilities (3rd Edition)
Environmental Code of Practice for Metal Mines (CEPA, 1999):
Outlines practices under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act for minimizing environmental impacts.
Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM):
Jointly developed by ICMM, UNEP, and PRI, this global standard supports safer and more transparent tailings practices.
INAP Tool For Acid Rock Drainage and Metal Leaching:
Tool designed for mine operators, to bridge between the guidance provided in the GARD guide and the site-specific actions that often need subject matter experts.
This resource portal is intended to support continued learning and application of best practices in ARD/ML management.
For questions or follow-up inquiries, please contact:
Skya Fawcett – Directory, Geochemistry
Email: sfawcett@hydroeq.ca
J.P. Bechtold – President and CEO
Email: j.p.bechtold@hydroeq.ca